My initial gut reaction is to say control. We are trying to control one of many things;
either our own fears of not being good enough; control the reputation of another person (as in trying to destroy them publically); or trying to control a situation.

But when we insult another person, we are insulting one of God's creations. And in doing this, we are telling God that what he created is not good enough. That's some very dangerous ground to be standing on.

Each person is a uniquely created individual, formed for a purpose and a role to play in this world. There is something that you were created for that no one else can accomplish. God has a plan for every single person's life, and when you put down and insult another person, you are trying to destroy the purpose they have for their life, and the purpose that God has created them for.

This is not cool people!

We need to get away from the constant insults, competition, and negativity that comes with trying to control and insult each other into submission. God created us for love, not for hate.